Burgess Society, Museum of Natural History keep mum on merger

The possible merger of the Sandwich-based Thornton Burgess Society with the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History in Brewster is still being sorted out this week.

Burgess Society Executive Director Gene Schott confirmed on Monday that a group vote was taken on the matter last week. However, he did not release the results.

He said a joint statement between the two organizations was being prepared for Tuesday, October 10.

Society members said a merger is not a new idea. A merger was considered six to seven years ago before it was eventually set aside. The current effort has been in the works on and off over the last three to four years.

One underlying theme involved a quest for an economy of scale in operations, resulting in a museum coalition of sorts from one end of the Cape to the other.

Schott said there are “numerous technicalities” to consider.

“Legal action has to occur,” he said Monday. “The attorney general has to be contacted. The IRS identification number has to be reissued. So we’re not prepared to release the results of our vote.”

A merger would represent news on not only the Cape’s cultural front, but in the business scene as well. Society members said the possible merger’s intended results have to be gauged or otherwise framed by the roles non-profit organizations play these days and how they survive. Many do so by continually raising money through programs and events.

Robert Dwyer, president of the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History, did not return a call for comment on the merger when contacted Monday.

The prominent Brewster museum concentrates on natural history and archaeology. The museum, according to visitor comments, is educational for all age groups, includes dedicated and professional staffers, involves many exhibits and programs, and is well-curated.

The Burgess Society is the caretaker of children’s author Thornton Burgess’ stories, characters, and memorabilia. It also operates the Green Brier Jam Kitchen in East Sandwich with its jam-making kitchen, distinctive Shirley G. Cross Wildflower Garden, and wildlife sanctuary.

Until two years ago, the society operated its museum in the leased Deacon Eldred House in Sandwich Village.

In 2014, the museum reported $3.8 million in assets, while the Burgess Society registered $1.3 million in assets. The museum usually attracts 55,000 visitors each year, whereas the Society draws 25,000 visitors.